Delimiting India’s Lok Sabha: Time for a Reform
India, with its vast population and political landscape, features the Lok Sabha, which currently comprises only 543 seats despite a population exceeding one billion. Is it high time we considered increasing the number of seats in the Lok Sabha? This article delves into the implications of the 84th Amendment to the Indian Constitution and explores whether India should revert to decadal revisions of constituency boundaries to better represent the changing demographics of the nation.
The 84th Amendment and Constituency Delimitation
The 84th Amendment to the Indian Constitution, while seemingly perpetual in its effect, is scheduled for periodic review. This amendment froze constituency boundaries until at least 2031, after the first census following 2026. According to this agreement, the Delimitation Commission has the authority to review and potentially revise the number of Lok Sabha seats based on updated demographic data.
It is crucial to understand that the Election Commission of India does not hold the power to increase the number of Lok Sabha members. Officially, only Parliament has the authority to amend the constitution to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha or state assemblies. However, the 84th Amendment sets a clear timeline for periodic review, providing a strategic window for future considerations.
Implications and Arguments for Change
The amendment’s implications are significant, especially considering the dynamic nature of India's population. With a growing populace concentrated in urban areas, the current constituency delineation may not accurately reflect the needs and representation required by the populace. The increasing concentration of population in smaller geographic areas necessitates a more robust and equitable system of representation.
Incrementing the number of seats in the Lok Sabha could address several critical issues:
**Political Representation:** Increased representation can ensure that the voices of the people are heard more effectively within the legislative framework.
**Resource Allocation:** More constituency divisions would allow for better allocation of resources such as hospitals, schools, and other essential services.
**Economic Development:** Smaller constituencies could be more effectively integrated into developmental plans, boosting economic growth and social welfare.
The debate on constituency delimitation in India has been largely dormant, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) facilitating necessary reforms that were previously neglected. The focus on urban and rural infrastructure development through Panchayats has been pivotal in this regard. The increasing number of Panchayats reflects the government's recognition of the importance of grassroots representation, which is directly linked to the number of constituencies.
In contrast, opposition parties like the Indian National Congress have been content with the status quo, often prioritizing short-term appeasement over long-term systemic reforms. The implementation of more frequent revisions to constituency boundaries could provide a more accurate and dynamic representation of India's evolving demographics.
One critical argument against increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats is the potential increase in the number of criminals and corrupt politicians. However, with stringent measures and reforms, this can be effectively mitigated. The focus should be on creating a more transparent and accountable electoral system, which could help filter out undesirable candidates at the grassroots level.
Conclusion
India’s Lok Sabha currently struggles to effectively represent all its constituents given the significant changes in population density and demographics. The timeline set by the 84th Amendment offers a unique opportunity for both reflection and reform. Reverting to decadal revisions of constituency boundaries could ensure a more equitable representation of the people and the resources necessary for their well-being. The need for such reforms is evident and must be addressed to enhance governance and development in the future.